About

Leeds Castle' is a bushy perennial with softly hairy, aromatic,grey-green leaves, producing spires of pale lilac flowers from late spring to midsummer.

About the genus

Nepeta can be annuals or, more commonly, perennials, with paired, usually aromatic leaves, and terminal spikes or panicles of 2-lipped, tubular flowers

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden
FragranceFoliage

Care notes

CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningTrim after flowering to keep plants compact and to encourage a second flowering
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or autumn. Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to leafhoppers
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews